Stanley Kubrick was a filmmaker known for his meticulous attention to detail and relentless pursuit of perfection. One of the most talked-about aspects of his directing style was his insistence on having actors perform scenes dozens, sometimes even over a hundred times. While this approach often frustrated actors and crew, Kubrick believed that repetition was the key to unlocking the most authentic and precise performances. He was not satisfied with "good enough"—he wanted every gesture, expression, and line delivery to be flawless, even if it meant pushing actors to their limits.
Kubrick’s method was rooted in his belief that great acting is not about spontaneity alone, but about mastering every nuance of a performance. By having actors repeat scenes multiple times, he allowed them to move beyond their initial instincts and explore deeper layers of their characters. This process often led to moments of raw, unscripted emotion that might not have emerged otherwise. For Kubrick, the extra takes were not about micromanaging but about giving actors the space to discover something extraordinary. His approach demanded patience and trust, but it also pushed performers to deliver work that was both technically precise and emotionally resonant.
The results of Kubrick’s relentless pursuit of perfection are evident in the timeless quality of his films. From Jack Nicholson’s iconic "Here’s Johnny!" in The Shining to the hauntingly precise dialogue in Dr. Strangelove, Kubrick’s insistence on multiple takes often yielded moments of cinematic brilliance. While his methods were not without controversy, they underscored his commitment to his craft and his unwavering vision. For Kubrick, the extra effort was always worth it, as it ensured that every frame of his films met his exacting standards and left a lasting impact on audiences.